Cave Run Dam Tailwater

Closed — Open for day-use recreation. Group shelters available first-come, first-served starting January 1. No overnight camping permitted; checkout time is 10:00 PM.

About

Cave Run Dam Tailwater Recreation Area is a day-use facility operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, located at the base of Cave Run Lake Dam along the Licking River in Bath County, Kentucky. The area is almost completely surrounded by the northernmost section of the Daniel Boone National Forest, providing visitors with scenic natural beauty and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The recreation area features two group picnic shelters (Green Shelter and Brown Shelter) with electricity that accommodate up to 50 people each and can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Five additional first-come, first-served uncovered picnic sites are available, along with a swing set, playground areas, restroom facilities, and a disc golf course. The site provides boat access to the Licking River for fishing and boating activities, with Cave Run Lake being widely known for its excellent muskie fishing, including Kentucky's state record. Located about 60 miles east of Lexington with primary access from Interstate 64 (exits 123, 133, and 137), the tailwater area sits within the hardwood-covered hills of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Over 300 species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles inhabit the surrounding forest, streams, ponds, and caves. Hunting is not permitted at this recreation area. Check-in time for shelter reservations is 10:00 AM with checkout at 10:00 PM the same day, confirming this is strictly a day-use facility.

Directions

Located about 60 miles east of Lexington, Kentucky. Primary access via Interstate 64 exits 123, 133, or 137. The tailwater area is at 150 KY Highway 826, Morehead, KY 40351.

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